Jayson Tatum is reportedly making a strong push to bring Damian Lillard to the Boston Celtics as the veteran guard weighs his next move. According to Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe, Tatum has been “active in recruiting” Lillard, leveraging their relationship from the 2020 Olympic team.
Washburn, speaking on the CLNS Media Boston Sports Network, said Tatum and Lillard are in communication, though the extent of their conversations remains unclear. “I just was told that they’re communicating and Tatum is recruiting. I mean, Tatum is the face of the franchise,” Washburn explained, via HoopsHype.
The Celtics are believed to be offering Lillard their taxpayer mid-level exception while eyeing him as a long-term investment once he fully recovers from his Achilles injury. Boston views Lillard as a potential fit alongside Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White in what could be a championship-caliber lineup by the 2026–27 season.
Lillard, waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, became a free agent after the team stretched the remaining $113 million on his contract to create cap space. During his two seasons in Milwaukee, he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists before tearing his Achilles during the 2025 playoffs.
Although Boston is one of several teams pursuing Lillard — including the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors — there are indications he is more open to the Celtics than during his Portland years. Washburn noted that while Lillard initially resisted the idea of playing in Boston, “that’s a little different now,” suggesting the nine-time All-Star wants to join a contender.
One potential obstacle is Lillard’s preference to complete his rehab in Portland to stay close to family. However, league sources told The Boston Globe that Boston remains a viable destination despite that challenge.
Washburn also highlighted the Celtics’ history of winning over players who initially doubted the fit, citing examples like Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Jrue Holiday. Boston hopes to replicate that with Lillard as it looks to maximize the championship window of its current core.
